The Memory & Cognitive Functions Clinic is operating under the Department of Neurology and the 1st University Department of Psychiatry, Aristotle University Thessaloniki. Both departments are based at Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece . This is an innovative and pioneering structure that was created in 2019,  operates in the context of the implementation of the EU project “Program for the Interconnection of Memory Clinic and Cognitive Functions of the Papageorgiou General Hospital with Primary Health Care Units”. The total budget of the Act, which is included in the Priority Axis “Promotion of social inclusion and fight against poverty – ECB” of the Operational Program “Central Macedonia” amounts to the amount of 128,890.90 €.

Clinical Setting 

Cognitive impairment  has an adverse effect on individual’s functionality, independence and performance of  daily activities . Cognitive dysfunction or neurocognitive deficits usually occur in neurodegenerative diseases such as: Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Parkinson’s syndromes, as well as in the context of normal aging (Aging Dementia). However, similar deficits may occur  at younger ages due to neurological diseases (Multiple Sclerosis,  Strokes, TBI, etc.). In addition, cognitive disorders occur as a result of psychiatric disorders (psychotic and emotional disorders, substance use, etc.).

 People with intellectual disabilities, which can range from Mild Cognitive Impairment to severe Dementia, need special care. Ideally, the proper treatment of people with memory disorders requires an interdisciplinary approach. Therefore, the Clinic aims to provide joint neurological and psychiatric care based on the principles of biopsychosocial rehabilitation.

An important feature of the Clinic is the adoption of the principles of holistic treatment for memory disorders. More specifically, the Clinic operates in such a way that both cognitive and behavioral-emotional symptoms are evaluated. In addition, the functionality of the individual is assessed, as well as the possible existence of co-morbid conditions (depression, cardiovascular diseases, infections, side effects of drugs, etc.). At the same time, the needs of people with dementia and their caregivers are identified, and appropriate guidance is provided.

Clinic’s Actions

The Memory Clinic is structured in such a way as to promote community awareness regarding memory disorders, early detection of cognitive deficits, and intervention-cognitive stimulation. The provision of multifaceted and high level services is achieved by the close connection of the Memory Clinic with scientific, health and community health bodies and specifically by informing general and family doctors, rural doctors and Health Centers in order to be referred to the Clinic where necessary.

Provided Services by the Memory & Cognitive Functions Clinic:

• Clinical Evaluation – Examination
• Neuropsychological Evaluation
• Diagnosis of Memory disorders
• Memory rehabilitation – cognitive stimulation projects (memory, attention, executive functions etc.)
• Pharmacological Interventions
• Non-Pharmacological interventions such as: Psychoeducation and support of patients, family and carers
• Education of Primary Health Care professionals
• Engagement in Research Projects 

Memory Clinic Referrals:

• Early cognitive decline-deficits
• Dementia ( Alzheimer’s, Vascular, Frontotemporal, Lewy body dementia)
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Cognitive deficits due to traumatic brain injury, Multiple Sclerosis or Stroke.

Clinic Procedure

Before a visit to the Memory & Cognitive Functions Clinic you need to book an appointment.  Our telephone number is: +30. 231 332 3844. 

During your visit at the clinic the following actions would be taken:

1. Clinical Examination by our team’s psychiatrist
2. Psychometric Evaluation by our team’s psychologists
3. Evaluation and discussion of findings
4. Identifying carer’s needs and risks
5. If needed creation of a patient’s care plan

Due to the thorough examination of the individual, the procedure can be time consuming. If necessary, the person will be referred for additional laboratory and imaging tests

Before coming for the appointment the following are useful:

• Previous blood sample results AND Brain Imaging findings (CT, MRI, MRA, Dat or even Pet-Scan

• Greek Social Security Number (AMKA)

• Medication List

•       You should bring your spectacles or hearing aid if you use them

•        The presence of a family member, carer or informer is highly beneficial